Speak the Lingo

breakup

The end of an Alaskan winter, when the ice that has frozen the major rivers thaws.

bush

The parts of Alaska accessible only by boat or aircraft.

bush pilots

Pilots of the small planes who provide transportation to bush communities and isolated destinations.

cheechako

A newcomer to Alaska.

Eskimo ice cream

Traditionally made of whipped berries, seal oil, and snow.

ice fog

A thick winter fog made of suspended ice particles that leaves the trees coated with ice crystals.

mukluks

Eskimo moccasins.

outside

Anywhere but Alaska.

permafrost

Soil which is permanently frozen.

quiviut

The warm underwool of the muskox used for knitting.

sourdough

An Alaskan old timer.